How to Spot Bed Bugs

Bed bugs can cause great discomfort, and some people have allergic reactions to their bites, but they do not carry infectious diseases as other blood-sucking insects like mosquitoes do. Bed bugs are flat, small, brownish bugs that exist solely from feasting on the blood of animals. At approximately 3/16 to 1/4 inches long, adult bed bugs can be hard to see as they hide in dark crevasses and protected areas near where they feed, which is why they are so commonly found in mattresses. You can spot bed bugs if you know where to look and what to look for.

Things You'll Need

• Flashlight for inspecting dark areas

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Do not immediately assume that bed bugs are the culprit of a bite you received in the night. Bed bug bites are similar in appearance to those of other blood-sucking insects. Check any luggage you may have used recently, as bed bugs are commonly transported from one location to another during travels. (See References 1, 3 and 4)

• 2

  Completely dismantle your bed and inspect your sheets and folds, crevices, linings and all sides of your mattress. Do not leave any crevice uninspected. Because bed bugs are so small and have flat bodies, they can easily hide in tight spaces. Look for stains from bed bug droppings on your mattress. Bed bugs have a tendency of living communally and will often leave fecal evidence. (See References 2 and 4)

• 3

  Check in the corners of walls, in shoeboxes and any dark, secluded spaces inside your home. Generally bed bugs will choose a location not far from their feed, but they can easily spread throughout the entire house. (See References 4)

• 4

  Get rid of them immediately. Wash all bedding and clothing thought to be infected with hot water and detergent (no less than 120 degrees F.). Put other household items such as backpacks, luggage and toys into a dryer at medium-high heat for approximately 20 minutes.

• 5

  Employ the help of experienced pest control professionals, who will have a better understanding of where to look and how best to relieve your bed bug infestation.